Contrast - Part 1


in architecture.

It is easy to introduce contrast into formal gardens because the formal lines contrast with the irregular forms of most plants. Even when the plant material within the garden consists entirely of clipped hedges, there are usually trees visible beyond the garden and there will be a strong contrast between clipped hedges and unfettered trees. Lack of contrast tends to be a much more complex problem in informal gardens, so I will be devoting my next article to contrast in informal gardens. I will be dealing with the issue of using contrasting colors in that article, because color is more essential in informal design. Formal gardens can be filled with a riot of colors, but they are really about line, form, texture and proportions. Like impressionist paintings, many informal gardens are very reliant on color combinations; line, form and texture often play minor roles.

This article is based upon the Handbook for Flower Shows, copyright 1997 by the National Council of State Garden Clubs, Inc. 1999 revised edition. My most recent article(s) that you might also find interesting:
The copyright of the article Contrast - Part 1 in Garden Design is owned by Kirk Johnson. Permission to republish Contrast - Part 1 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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